Rob Upton-Moir – BA (Hons) International Relations, 2012 

Rob graduated with a BA (Hons) International Relations in 2012, after which he joined Anglian Water in an entry level position. Despite what he says describes as ‘accidentally falling into the industry’, he carved a career and did a variety of roles from planning and scheduling, team management, asset management, IT Transformation, and customer change programmes. Rob now works for a consultancy company as Head of Developer Services, working with industry experts to transform the customer service functions and digital solutions provided to new housing developments. He leads an agile team supporting water companies across the UK.

We asked Rob a few questions about his time at university and his career. This is what he had to say:

How did your time at the University of Lincoln support your career?: 

University education equipped me with transferable skills. Taking part in presentations and course modules such as Model United Nations gave me confidence in public speaking, team working skills, and ability to write essays / presentations. My course also promoted critical thinking and problem-solving. The University of Lincoln offered me a diverse and vibrant community where you can connect with fellow students, faculty members, and professionals in various industries. Building a network of contacts during my time at the University of Lincoln gave me valuable connections that supported my career progression.

What are the best parts of your job?

I work in the UK Water industry during one of the most interesting times. Water plays a vital role in everyday life and pivotal in the protection of the environment. The industry is awash with innovation and technology. The challenges facing the industry due to water scarcity, ageing infrastructure, the growing skills gap, and climate change mean that it is extremely faced paced and exciting. The skills and experience gained in the UK water industry are transferable and globally applicable. Water is a global issue, and the knowledge and expertise acquired in this industry can be applied to water-related challenges around the world. This opens opportunities for international collaboration and potential career mobility.

What inspired you to study at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)? 

I selected the University of Lincoln due to the International Relations course. I am passionate about a global identity and understanding the fabric of international diplomacy. Studying at the UoL gave me access to leading academics, interesting modules, and a cross-disciplinary education. The ability to study abroad was also a key factor. My year at Juniata College was a core building block to my personal and professional development.

What was your favourite thing about being a student at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)?

My favourite thing about being a student at UoL was the sense of community. The university is situated right in the heart of the city. The campus is largely contained within the city itself, with all the academic buildings, library, and accommodation all within walking distance of each other. The student community is integrated well with the population of Lincoln. Being in the heart of the city gives a fun, diverse energy to learning at the UoL.

If you could give our current students any top tip for after graduation and their careers, what would it be?

Adopt a growth mindset. To do this, embrace every learning opportunity. Seek out professional development opportunities, attend workshops, take online courses, and stay updated with industry trends. Embracing learning opportunities will help you stay competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.

Don’t be afraid to take on challenging projects or assignments that push you out of your comfort zone. If you encounter failure or make mistakes, see them as valuable learning experiences that can help you improve and develop resilience.

Networking is crucial for career success. Cultivate relationships with professionals in your field, attend industry events, join relevant professional organisations, and engage with alumni networks. Building a strong network can open doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable connections that can support your career advancement.

Take initiative and be proactive in your career. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; seek them out. Actively pursue internships, volunteer work, or projects that align with your career goals. Stay updated on job postings, company news, and industry developments. Create a professional online presence through platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your skills and experiences.

Rob has now signed up to become a University of Lincoln Alumni Ambassador, allowing him to share his story and to inspire and support current students.